Story 37. Written by Jim Waitlord

"People lavish fortunes on dogs, cats, all sorts of useless pets; enough to solve the world's problems! Yet they starve and kill their own kind, they wouldn't give a beggar the time of day, let alone a penny." – Jean-Pierre mused, puffing on his cigar on the balcony of his luxury apartment. Then, inspiration struck: "Why couldn't we just keep needy people, or migrants, as pets?"

The idea was so brilliant that Jean-Pierre almost choked. Of course, why not? Dogs are loyal, cats are aloof, but imagine your own African "pet"! So much more exotic, and the Instagram opportunities! #CompassionateCompanionship #GlobalDiversity #PetWithAPurpose.

This thought ignited the "Compassionate Companionship" movement, which spread like wildfire through the West.

A Paradise for the Privileged:

Suddenly, every wealthy enclave boasted "wards." Africans pruned roses, Syrian families sunbathed (with SPF 100, naturally), and children listened to Arabian Nights instead of Mother Goose. The latest trend was dressing the migrants in ridiculous pet costumes for amusing the children.

"Cheaper than a Labradoodle!" the movement's spokespeople bellowed on television. Food and shelter in exchange for "services," of course. Critics mumbled about "neo-slavery," but most preferred the soothing syrup of humanitarianism.

The Golden Age of Migrant-Petting:

"Zoos should offer Migrant-Petting Experiences! Kids can pay to pet different races, even feed them! Every child would be delighted, and so would the migrants!" the next stroke of genius was announced at a gala.

And so they did. Children happily tossed pellets to the people in cages, faces locked in a rictus of a smile. Parents beamed, capturing the moment for posterity: little Timmy "helping" the less fortunate.

The Ultimate Solution:

"This solves everything: hunger, homelessness, overpopulation, because naturally, they'd be sterilized! If they're well-behaved, they might even cohabitate. As long as they don't bite!" This, of course, was the "final solution" championed by movement leaders.

Sterilization sparked some controversy, but the "humanitarian" argument won. "Fewer unwanted children!"

The Facade of Contentment:

In this warped world, everyone seemed happy. The rich felt virtuous, the children were entertained, and the "wards" had food and a roof. Or at least, that's what they told themselves.

The Ruthless Reality:

Deep down, the "wards" seethed with humiliation. They dreamed of their families and a future where they weren't objects. As they sang silly songs for the children, their hearts were breaking.

The Migrant-Petting Experiences only widened the racial chasm, ensuring the children remained blissfully ignorant of empathy and genuine respect.

The Message:

"Compassionate Companionship" was just a perverse reflection of inequality and racism. A warning: never sacrifice human dignity for comfort or the illusion of charity. The only solution is empathy, solidarity, and true respect.

The Migrant-Petters: An Ironic Novella